12th October 2023, Mumbai: Crime Thrillers have always been a much-watched genre of films and web series. There are new crime thrillers that are announced and made every year across film industries. But how to choose which ones to watch and which ones to ditch? Well, we have you covered. Check out the list of the best South Indian crime thrillers now streaming on various OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar and others for that perfect chilling, edge-of-the-seat experience.
Kantara – Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
Kantara is a Kannada action-thriller that shook the nation, emerging as one of the highest-rated thriller movies of 2022 on IMDb. The film is set in a small village of South Karnataka, providing insight into the cultural rituals followed by the people of Karnataka. Kantara revolves around a mysterious murder that triggers a series of events, exposing the dark secrets of the village. Directed by Rishab Shetty, who also plays the lead role, the film features Sapthami Gowda and Kishore in pivotal roles.
KGF: Chapter 2 – Amazon Prime Video
A sequel to the blockbuster Kannada film, KGF: Chapter 1, this film continues the journey of Rocky, who became the king of the gold mine after vanquishing his enemies in the first part. However, new challenges emerge as a powerful politician and a ruthless mercenary seek to seize his empire. Directed by Prashanth Neel, the film stars Yash, Sanjay Dutt, Raveena Tandon, and Srinidhi Shetty in the lead roles, and KGF once again set the box office on fire.
Vikram – ZEE5
Vikram is a Tamil action-thriller that stars Kamal Haasan, Fahadh Faasil, and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead roles. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his previous films Maanagaram and Kaithi, the film follows a group of undercover black ops led by Vikram, embarking on a mission to take down a notorious drug lord in Chennai. Packed with high-octane action sequences and twists, Vikram keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Yashoda – Netflix
Yashoda is a Telugu crime-drama that marks Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s debut as a producer. Directed by Nandini Reddy and starring Samantha, the film Is based on the true story of Yashoda, a woman accused of gruesomely killing her husband and his family. The film delves into the motives behind her actions and the challenges she faced in proving her innocence.
Drishyam 2 – Disney+ Hotstar
Drishyam 2 is a sequel to the Malayalam thriller, Drishyam, and continues the story of Georgekutty, who saved his family from a murder charge in the first part. Directed by Jeethu Joseph and starring Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, and Esther Anil, the film introduces new threats from the police and the victim’s family, determined to uncover the truth.
Kuruthi – Amazon Prime Video
Kuruthi is a Malayalam thriller that explores themes of religion, politics, and violence. Directed by Manu Warrier and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Roshan Mathew, Murali Gopy, and Srindaa, the film traps a group of people in a remote house during a communal riot. Forced to confront their own prejudices and fears, they must survive the night.
Navarasa – Netflix
Navarasa is an anthology of nine short films, each exploring one of the nine emotions or rasas in Indian aesthetics. Directed by prominent filmmakers of Tamil cinema, such as Gautham Menon, Karthik Subbaraj, Bejoy Nambiar, and Priyadarshan, the films feature an array of actors like Suriya, Vijay Sethupathi, Revathi, Parvathy Thiruvothu, and Siddharth.
Kurup – Netflix
Kurup is a Malayalam biographical crime thriller based on the life of Sukumara Kurup, one of India’s most wanted criminals. Directed by Srinath Rajendran and starring Dulquer Salmaan, Sobhita Dhulipala, Indrajith Sukumaran, and Sunny Wayne, the film chronicles the infamous murder case of Kurup, who faked his own death for an insurance scam in 1984 and has been on the run ever since.
Pushpa – Disney+ Hotstar
Pushpa is a Telugu action thriller starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, and Jagapathi Babu. Directed by Sukumar, the film revolves around Pushpa Raj, a lorry driver involved in the illegal smuggling of red sandalwood in the forests of Andhra Pradesh. The film showcases the clash between Pushpa and a ruthless forest officer determined to stop his illegal activities.
These South Indian crime thrillers offer a diverse range of gripping narratives, intense performances, and heart-pounding action. Whether you’re a fan of high-octane action, thought-provoking drama, or thrilling mysteries, there’s something for everyone among these top-notch films available on various OTT platforms. So, grab some popcorn and prepare for an exciting cinematic journey through the world of South Indian crime thrillers.
-by Kashvi Gala